DTI requires a business name to have:

• Dominant portion: A word, group of words, or a combination of letters and numerals.

• Descriptor: A word or group of words describing the nature of your business.

A business name will not be approved if it:

• Suggests unlawful, immoral, or scandalous activities

• Uses terms that designate or suggest the quality of any goods, articles, merchandise, products, or services

• Contains names registered as trademarks or business names

• Is inimical to national security (e.g., ISIS)

• Is purely a generic word or words

• Is restricted by law or cannot be appropriated

• Is used by the government in its non-proprietary functions

• Includes the names of nations or international organizations without authorization

• Has names declared unsuitable by authorities or the court

• Uses names that are deceptive or misleading

SEC-registered partnerships and corporations may use "Company," "Corporation," or "Incorporated" in their business name.
 

However, the word "Cooperative" can only be used if the business is registered with the CDA (Cooperative Development Authority).

• Business Name: Used in legal documents, such as receipts and contracts.

• Brand Name: Identifies your products/services and is used for marketing and selling to the public.
   

Yes, your business name can be different from your brand name. While your business name is registered with DTI, you can apply to trademark your brand name through the Intellectual Property Office (IPO).

You can get your DTI Certificate of Registration on the same day if your business name is cleared. It's recommended to prepare at least 3 alternatives in case your preferred name is taken or disapproved.

You can still submit manual applications at DTI offices or Negosyo Centers. Just bring 1 valid government-issued ID and fill out the necessary forms available at the office.

No, you can ask a representative to register on your behalf. They will need to bring:

• A valid ID

• A signed authorization letter from you (the business owner)

• All required documentation

The penalty for late renewal is 50% of the renewal fee.

You can renew your registration during the following periods:

• Early filing: 180 calendar days before the expiration date

• Regular filing: Within 90 days after the expiration date

• Late filing: Within 90 days after the regular filing deadline, with a surcharge

If you miss the grace period, your registration will be canceled, and you'll need to reapply.

Yes, a transfer of ownership requires a new registration with DTI.

Yes, you can update your registration information, but you'll need to submit additional documents and pay a fee to DTI.

Yes, you can update the following information during renewal:

• Territorial scope

• Business address

• Civil status

• Middle and last name (e.g., maiden name to married name)

• Email address

• Contact number

• Residence address

Yes, you can cancel your registration if:

• You stop operating your business

• You sell the business

• You relocate beyond the original territorial scope

• A business with a conflicting name is registered

To cancel, simply visit any DTI office.

To request a certified true copy, visit a DTI office, submit the Other Business Name (BN)-Related Application Form, and pay the applicable fee. Don't forget to bring a valid government-issued ID.

The public can access the following details:

• Approved business name

• Territorial scope

• Business name owner

• Validity period

• Registration number